Latest
New Headlamps From Black Diamond, Petzl, and Brunton (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2006)

LED headlamps continue to proliferate with both high power and ultralight headlamps.

Princeton Tec Apex Pro Headlamp (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2006)

Princeton Tec has reduced the weight of their 3-Watt LED Apex Pro by nearly 4 ounces.

MSR Reactor Integrated Canister Stove (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2006)

The integrated canister stove category just blew wide open with the imminent arrival of MSR's new Reactor. It's claimed to be the fastest-boiling, most fuel-efficient, windproof cooking system available. And there's another integrated canister stove coming from a different stove maker. BPL will cover this tomorrow night. Move over Jetboil!

Kestrel 4500 Pocket Weather Station (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2006)

The Kestrel 4500 adds a digital compass to an already impressive portable weather meter

Universal Adapter Carport Power Charger (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2006)

A portable 12-volt power pack to recharge your portable electronics.

Before The Chaos: Open Air Demo (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2006)

Before the chaos of the Outdoor Retailer Show we get ready with the Open Air Demo.

The Poncho Tarp: Techniques and Gear Systems for Inclement Conditions

Poncho Tarps are not just for the eccentric. Learn how to use them in foul weather and save considerable weight and simplify your gear kit.

Comfort and Moisture Transport in Lightweight Wool and Synthetic Base Layers

An in-depth comparison of the properties of wool and synthetic fabric for base layers yielded some surprising results.

TechSpun Environmental Sock System SPOTLITE REVIEW

TechSpun makes some strong claims for these socks; is it hype, or do they really work? We tested them in summer and winter to find out.

Wise Women Go Light, Part 1

The first in a series of three articles chronicling the experiences of hiking buddies Jean and Sue as they begin on the journey to lightweight backpacking.

Outdoor Research Flex-Tex Gaiters SPOTLITE REVIEW

Lightweight, durable, breathable, water-resistant, and stretch to fit a variety of footwear – but we had a couple of problems with the snaps and sizing.

Backpacking Light Magazine Seeks Nominations for Outdoor Industry’s Most Stringent Product Award Program

Announcing the second annual Lightitude Award for the Best Gear of 2006

Six Moon Designs Gatewood Cape SPOTLITE REVIEW

Compared to a poncho/tarp, is it possibly a better poncho AND a better shelter?

Backpacking Light Print vs. Online Magazines: Vision for 2006 and Beyond

A letter to the readers of Backpacking Light Magazine.

Outdoor Research Women Cloudburst Hat REVIEW

Outdoor Research Women introduces a lightweight, warm weather, sun and rain hat.

Boy Scout Gear List: Philmont Scout Ranch, New Mexico, Summer

Philmont Guidebook to Adventure: "Remember, the key to successful backpacking is to go lightly."

Photon Freedom LED Micro-Light SPOTLITE REVIEW

This miniscule wonder has most of the functionality of a regular headlamp, at a fraction of the weight.

Sierra Designs Hyperlight Tent REVIEW

Spacious, durable, wind-stable 4.5 lb tent - while very light for its size, it still can't match the area to weight ratio of our highest rated double wall tent.

Hilleberg Akto Tent REVIEW

A four-season solo tent that weights just 3 pounds, offers excellent usable space, is very durable, and provides full storm protection...does the Hilleberg Akto have a down side?

Vaude Lightwing Ultralight Tent REVIEW

Two-person, three-season, double wall tent with a high price but a sturdy build.

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